This month Japan Links interviews Aaron Baddeley, one of the many talented golfers to have come out of Australia in recent years. We caught up with Aaron during his recent visit to Japan.
In 2004 you finished 123rd on the USPGA Tour money list, close to the 125 cut line that is set for the 2005 season. What was the difference between this year and 2003, when you finished 73rd?
In 2004 I underwent a series of swing changes that contributed to a year that just did not go as planned. My preparations, approach and desire were as strong as ever. I still look at 2004 as a successful year and am very excited about 2005.
What is your playing schedule for 2005?
I will probably play 25-28 four-day events. They would ideally take place in the USA, Australia, Canada, Scotland and Japan.
What do you enjoy about coming to Japan?
The food, I simply love Japanese food. In addition, the people are great, as are the culture and golf events. I have always enjoyed my visits to Japan and look forward to coming back again this year.
Your fashion on and off the golf course has been followed closely in recent years. What is it you like about fashion and the link to your sponsors?
I have three clothing sponsors: Ecco, Johan Lindeberg and Ahead Headwear.
I have worked with each of these companies to create a style that is comfortable and that I enjoy wearing ?and hope the golfing public likes as well.
What equipment do you use?
My hardware is mainly from the MacGregor product line. I trust their ability to be at the forefront of new technology so much so that I have made an investment in the distribution of MacGregor equipment in Australia.
Which part of the game do you think is the most important?
That is easy: the short game. I have always enjoyed all aspects of the short game, in particular chipping and putting. I often see beginners and average golfers putting a lot of effort into the long game, only to see the scores always higher than they should be. Spending extra time on the short game sure helps get those scores down!
Your swing coach is David Leadetter, often considered the worldfs number one instructor. What makes him so good?
His record is simply the best. In addition, he has such a huge wealth of knowledge and makes things really easy to understand. We made some big improvements in 2004 and look forward to some great results in 2005.
Each year in Fiji you host the Aaron Baddely World Junior Championships. What is the key objective of the event?
The event started in 2001 and has grown to include six countries?Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the USA and Japan. It was established with the Fiji Tourism Board and my sponsors to give Junior Golfers from around the world a chance to compete at the highest level.
My family and I have endeavored to continue creating the best possible tournament experience and the opportunity for the winners to compete in the Australian Menfs and Womenfs Open. The event has been a huge success to date, and one that allows me to give something back to Junior Golf.
Aaron Baddeley and Paul Jones with some young Japanese golfers.
Paul Jones is the current Director of Education for Accordia Golf here in Japan. A AAA Australian PGA professional Paul has been involved in all facets of the sport and hospitality industry for the past 15 years.
Paul has worked on all major professional golf tours around the world for the past 10 years with leading players and instructors in the development of the game.
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Paul Jones is the current Director of Education for Accordia Golf here in Japan. A AAA Australian PGA professional Paul has been involved in all facets of the sport and hospitality industry for the past 15 years.
